This chocolate banana oatmeal treat is proof that healthy can still mean rich, chocolatey, and wildly satisfying. As a chef passionate about mindful indulgence, I love recipes like this where natural sweetness from ripe bananas meets the deep flavor of cocoa in a treat that’s light, nourishing, and entirely free from added sugar.
It’s a 3-step, 1-bowl wonder that bakes into a soft, fudgy snack you’ll want again and again. Perfect for breakfast, lunchboxes, or post-dinner guilt-free indulgence. And with only a handful of ingredients, it’s as easy on your grocery list as it is on your prep time.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas – the riper, the sweeter
- 2 eggs
- 25g cocoa powder – unsweetened for pure chocolate depth
- 5g baking powder (optional) – for a slightly lighter texture
- Banana slices or nuts – for topping, optional but highly recommended
Step by Step Directions
1: Prep Your Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a small loaf pan or muffin tin with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2: Mash and Mix
- In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas until completely smooth.
- Add the eggs and whisk until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the cocoa powder and baking powder (if using) until a uniform batter forms.
3: Bake and Decorate
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan or divide among muffin cups.
- Top with banana slices or chopped nuts if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before removing from the pan and serving.
Ways to Elevate Your Chocolate Banana Treat
Optional Add-Ins That Pair Perfectly
- Chia seeds: Add a nutritional boost and slight crunch 1 tbsp is enough.
- Dark chocolate chips: For those who love a richer bite without added sugar, use stevia-sweetened chips.
- Shredded coconut: A tropical twist that plays beautifully with the banana-cocoa duo.
- Peanut butter swirl: Add small dollops on top and swirl with a toothpick before baking for a nutty upgrade.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
- Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 5 days. Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped muffins or slices for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or microwave from frozen.
Perfect for Guilt-Free Gifting
Wrap cooled slices in parchment and tie with kitchen twine for a rustic, wholesome gift. These make lovely additions to care packages, snack trays, or holiday baskets especially for health-conscious friends.
